ORR showing a lack of imagination regarding enabling WCML open access operations

[Meole]

Moderator note: Split from

WCML Open Access Applications Rejected

This is the ORR press release rejecting the three WCML open access applications (WSMR, Lumo Rochdale, Virgin). https://www.orr.gov.uk/search-news/rail-regulator-rejects-west-coast-main-line-applications-due-insufficient-capacity Rail regulator rejects West Coast Main Line applications due to...

www.railforums.co.uk

The ORR shows a distinct lack of imagination in not considering the option of reducing the paths utilised by existing WCML operators to create the pathway for these new innovative services which would significantly enhance passenger experience through greater choice and pricing, too much political pressure perhaps.

 

[Starmill]

The ORR shows a distinct lack of imagination in not considering the option of reducing the paths utilised by existing WCML operators to create the pathway for these new innovative services which would significantly enhance passenger experience through greater choice and pricing, too much political pressure perhaps.

How are you proposing getting them to give up their firm rights? The ORR can't just take them away because they feel like it...

 

[Class 170101]

The ORR shows a distinct lack of imagination in not considering the option of reducing the paths utilised by existing WCML operators to create the pathway for these new innovative services which would significantly enhance passenger experience through greater choice and pricing, too much political pressure perhaps.

Not ORR's bag I would suggest. Thats for the DfT to instruct 'Franchised' operators like Avanti to do to allow OA to gain access to the track.

It would be interesting to see if the OA operators could do better than the current mob. However if would have to be the OA's paying their correct share of the maintenance costs of the infrastructure they use rather than any other charge.

Maybe it would see (the limited) DfT funding diverted to other lines instead. (Not holding my breath though.